Do I Need an Information Technology Degree? What to Consider

It is possible to enter the IT field without a degree, but you may find it easier to qualify for more jobs or advance in your career with an IT degree. Career opportunities in the information technology (IT) field are abundant. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs in the computer and information technology industry are expected to grow at a much faster rate than most occupations in the US from 2022 to 2023 [1]. This translates to around 377,500 job openings per year.

Use this guide to learn more about what an IT degree is, how IT differs from computer science, careers you can pursue with an IT degree, the benefits of getting one, and alternatives to a degree.

What is an information technology degree?

Information technology refers to the use of computer systems to manage information, improve communications, and solve problems. It is a broad field of study that encompasses many specializations, such as cybersecurity and network administration. You can earn an associate degree or bachelor's degree by majoring in IT, or you can advance your knowledge with a master’s degree or doctorate.

Examples of information technology degrees:

• Bachelor of Information Technology

• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity

• Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering

• Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering

• Master of Information Technology

• Master of Science in Information Systems

• Master of Science in Software Engineering

Information technology degree coursework

You can expect to study the following subjects while earning an IT degree:

• Information systems

• Cybersecurity

• System administration and maintenance

• Web development and design

• Programming and scripting

• Data management

• Operating systems

More advanced degree programs may also cover software development, IT project management, InfoSec, and business information technology.

Read more: Information Systems vs. Information Technology (IS vs. IT)

IT vs. computer science

In the computer science field, you’ll design and build computers and computer programs. In IT, you’ll work to maintain and improve those computers, as well as the systems, security structures, databases, and networks that help them run. Several fields combine principles from both computer science and IT, like cloud computing, DevOps, and database administration.

So which should you choose? If you’re drawn more toward what you can do with computers—building websites, designing software, creating machine learning algorithms—then computer science might be what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in the ways computers run, IT is probably more suited for you. Learn more about the differences between a computer science and IT degree.

Other related fields, such as data science or computer engineering, are also worth exploring.

What can you do with an information technology degree?

An IT degree is an excellent starting point for career paths ranging from engineering to managerial. Nearly every industry requires IT professionals, so you have a wide range of specializations to choose from. The list below outlines a few careers that can begin with an information technology degree, along with their respective salaries and education requirements.

Systems administrator

Systems administrators troubleshoot, maintain, and support the operations surrounding computer networks and servers. On average, sysadmins in the US earn $84,844 per year [2]. Sixty percent of system administrators have a bachelor's degree, 24 percent have an associate degree, and 9 percent have a master's, according to Zippia [3].

Network administrator

A network administrator is responsible for ensuring an organization's network systems work securely and efficiently. In the US, network administrators earn an average annual wage of $77,829 [4]. Fifty-five percent have a bachelor's degree, 30 percent have an associate degree, and 7 percent have a master's degree [5].

Information security analyst

Information security analysts protect organizations' sensitive data by monitoring cybersecurity threats and designing and implementing defense measures. On average, information security analysts in the US earn $108,084 per year [6]. Sixty-two percent have a bachelor's degree, 20 percent have an associate degree, and 13 percent have a master's degree [7].

Help desk technician

Help desk technicians are customer service representatives with specialized knowledge in troubleshooting problems that may arise with hardware, software, or networks. In the US, help desk technicians earn $63,259 per year [8]. Fifty percent of help desk technicians have a bachelor's degree, 32 percent have an associate degree, and 7 percent have a high school diploma [9].

Is an information technology degree worth it?

Real-world experience and technical skills can get you far in IT. In recent years, prominent companies like Google and Apple have stopped requiring four-year degrees as long as employees have the technical knowledge to complete the work [10]. Google has also released online education offerings, such as skill-building career certificates, to prepare candidates for entry-level roles.

Benefits of earning an IT degree

• Some employers might still prefer candidates with bachelor’s degrees. While many companies might be getting rid of their four-year degree requirements, BLS indicates that some positions can require a bachelor’s degree [1].

• You’ll learn in a structured environment. Enrolling in a degree program can create a structured environment where you’ll have a set schedule and professors and peers to ask questions. 

• Higher degrees are linked to higher incomes. High school graduates in the US earn a median weekly income of $901, while bachelor's degree holders make a median of $1,680 a week, according to 2024 BLS data [11]. So while it’s possible to land a job in IT without a degree, you might find that you'll need to work up to the salary you desire.

Other ways to break into the IT field

If you’re trying to land an entry-level IT job, less expensive and quicker ways exist to get the training you need, like IT certifications. Entry-level IT jobs generally require an understanding of various operating systems, networks, and basic security features. You can look through several job descriptions of positions you’re interested in to get a sense of what kind of skills you’ll want to have.

Earn an IT degree through Coursera.

If you're ready to explore an undergraduate degree, earn your Bachelor of Information Technology from Illinois Tech. Or advance with Illinois Tech's Master of Information Technology or Northeastern University's Master of Science in Information Systems.

Learn more about each program below.